Expert Spotlight: Chantal

Expert Spotlight: Chantal

Born, lived, studied, guided, trekked, researched, eaten, taught and volunteered in more than 90 countries worldwide, Kensington’s award-winning team of Destination Experts are bounded by passion and drive to discover the new and unknown. We could go on forever about how awesome our team is, but we’d rather let them speak for themselves. Check out our quick-fire round of questions and answers – dealing with travel and beyond – with Eastern Europe Destination Expert, Chantal S.

What has been your favorite travel moment?

I was lucky to have been raised in Colombia. One of my favorite things to do when I was growing up, and still today, was to camp out at Tyrona National Park. There is nothing like sleeping in a hammock on a beautiful tropical beach surrounded by stars!

What’s the first thing you do when you land in a new country?

As much as I love traveling with friends or family, I appreciate those moments to myself. So when I’m in a new place I always look for a nice café where I’ll be able to spend those moments alone reading a nice book while sipping a glass of wine.

If you could only eat three foods for the rest of your life, what would they be?

Oranges – always refreshing and full of vitamins

Pizza – I must eat pizza at least once a week!

Cheese – any kind of cheese, especially with a nice glass of wine

What are your tips for getting through long flights?

A great neck pillow and a window seat! The easiest way to pass time on a plane is to sleep through your flight.

What’s your favorite foreign phrase?

Que tan tarde estas abierto? (Spanish for: how late are you open?)

What’s the single must-must-must-do experience in your sales region?

An overnight stay in a medieval German castle!

What should you always be sure to have in your carry-on?

A change of clothes and toiletries in case the airline loses your bags.

What’s your favorite thing about traveling?

I love walking through markets, especially once with great spices. I’m a foodie so all those lovely smells resonate with me.

Where are you headed next?

Greece! Looking forward to spending time on some more off the beaten track islands like Milos and Ios!